Prevent bites

Ticks thrive in forests, marshes, and tall grass, so if you're spending time in those areas, dress your child in a long-sleeved shirt and long pants; tuck the cuffs into her socks for maximum protection. Have her wear light-colored clothing to make it easier to spot ticks. Spritz her with a bug repellent that's no more than 10 percent DEET.

Detach ticks properly

After your kid comes inside, look her over thoroughly—especially her scalp, behind her ears, her neck, under her arms, and her groin. If you see a tick that doesn't brush off easily, you'll need to remove it. With a pair of tweezers, grasp the tick firmly at its head (close to the skin); pull it straight out, gently and firmly. If you're not comfortable doing this, have your doctor do it. "You could inadvertently infect your child if you leave the tick's head under your child's skin," says Dr. Fein.

Save the evidence

Put the tick in a plastic bag and take it to the doctor to be tested for Lyme. If it's a deer tick, ask about starting your child on antibiotics right away, instead of waiting for the results.

Watch for symptoms

The hallmark of Lyme disease is a rash with a red spot in the center (like a bull's-eye) that appears within the first two weeks of a tick bite. Other symptoms include low-grade fever, lethargy, headache, neck stiffness, and nausea. If your child develops any of these, call the doctor.